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Dynamic Light Play and Natural Ventilation in Sustainable Spaces Using Concrete and Wood

Authors:
Ahmed Madhat A Madhat, Mohammed Madhat A Madhat
Dynamic Light Play and Natural Ventilation in Sustainable Spaces Using Concrete and Wood

Project in-detail

Employing dynamic light play through the intentional use of shadow spaces and natural ventilation, the design seamlessly integrates concrete and wood to create an adaptable living environment that promotes both comfort and functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrated shadow spaces create dynamic light interaction throughout the day.
02
Natural ventilation is strategically harnessed through the design layout and materials.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural stability and aesthetic warmth.
04
Charred wooden shingles contribute to fire resistance and climate adaptability.
05
The bent A-frame design enhances spatial functionality while minimizing environmental impact.

The Palmetto Grid House is located in Miami, Florida, and is designed to harmonize the interplay of natural light, spatial organization, and user engagement. The project is built around fundamental design principles that focus on the relationship between light and shadow, facilitating an environment conducive to both relaxation and productivity. The layout fosters a natural transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, reflecting an understanding of the local climate and its influence on architectural expression.

### Temporal Spatial Arrangement
The spatial strategy employed in the house revolves around a temporal approach to organization. Rooms, including work and leisure areas, are configured to support various activities throughout the day. As daylight varies, the shadows cast by architectural elements enhance the experience of space, encouraging occupants to actively engage with their surroundings and perceive the passing of time uniquely.

### Material Selection
Materiality plays a crucial role in supporting the design ethos of the Palmetto Grid House. Key materials include:

- **Concrete** for structural integrity and thermal mass, ensuring durability.
- **Glass** to maximize natural light and provide visual continuity with the external landscape.
- **Wood** for added warmth, contrasting with other smooth surfaces and enriching tactile experience.
- **Metal** in finishes and support structures, contributing to a modern aesthetic.

Together, these materials create a cohesive environment that functions as both a retreat and workspace, reinforcing the project’s focus on integrative living.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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